Second highest cancer cases recorded in Addu

Health Ministry has revealed today that Addu City has the highest number of cancer patients outside the capital, Male'.

The ministry, citing the Oncological Centre at Hulhumale' Hospital in an article published on 'Sarukaaru Habaru' [Government News], reported that Addu ranks second in cancer prevalence, followed by Shaviyani atoll in third. 

Fourth on the list is Raa atoll, with 58 reported cases. 

Chemotherapy treatment was first introduced in the country in 2014.

Outside of the capital, chemotherapy treatment was first introduced at the Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital in Naifaru in 2020. Following this, the service was launched at the HDh. Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital and Dr AbduSamad Memorial Hospital in 2023. 

The service was most recently introduced at the R. Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital, inaugurated last Monday, where two patients are now receiving treatment. 

The ministry stated that Aasandha records show cancer is the leading long-term illness for which patients seek treatment abroad, emphasizing the need for strong in-country cancer care.